Why community controlled?
In Australia, the provision of housing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is not just about building homes – it’s about creating spaces that foster cultural identity, dignity, and self-determination. Community control is essential to ensuring that housing systems meet the unique needs of Indigenous communities, offering a model that not only empowers but also upholds the rights of First Nations peoples.
Why Community Matters
The principle of community control in housing is rooted in the understanding that Indigenous peoples are best positioned to make decisions about their own living conditions. Research consistently shows that when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have control over housing design, delivery, and management, the outcomes are more effective and culturally relevant. This approach respects the deep knowledge communities have of their own needs, and empowers them to create sustainable solutions that reflect their values and priorities.
The Closing the Gap Agreement, which aims to address inequality between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, specifically highlights the importance of self-determination and community-driven decision-making in improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The agreement emphasizes that housing is not only about providing shelter but also about ensuring that the homes we create are safe, culturally appropriate, and part of a broader vision for community wellbeing and economic empowerment.
Acknowledging the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) stresses the importance of Indigenous peoples’ right to self-determination, including the right to freely pursue their economic, social, and cultural development. Under Article 23 of UNDRIP, Indigenous peoples have the right to determine and develop priorities and strategies for the development or use of their lands or territories. This extends to housing – where community control ensures that housing programs and policies reflect Indigenous peoples’ values and priorities.
Community control in housing delivery means Indigenous communities have the authority to shape policies and programs that directly affect their lives. It allows for the integration of cultural practices and traditions into housing design and management, such as communal living spaces or sustainable building techniques grounded in traditional knowledge.
Moving Forward Together
When Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities lead housing initiatives, they not only contribute to Closing the Gap but also help create lasting change that respects their sovereignty and cultural integrity. As we continue to work towards an equitable future, community control remains a cornerstone of effective housing delivery for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
By supporting and amplifying community-led housing initiatives, we can ensure that the voices of Indigenous peoples are at the forefront of decisions that affect their communities, contributing to a future where housing is not just a shelter, but a foundation for thriving, self-determined lives.
